The Kia XCeed is a reasonably priced alternative to a smaller family SUV, but in reality, it’s just a Ceed with a new body and a higher suspension. Along with a superb overall driving experience, a plug-in hybrid engine choice, a lot of standard equipment, and a well-built, logical interior, you also get a somewhat higher sitting position. However, the 2022 Kia XCeed review demonstrates that the facelift didn’t make many changes.
If a conventional hatchback isn’t quite what you’re looking for, you Still don’t want to fork out the additional money or sacrifice performance or economy for a larger, heavier SUV; the Kia XCeed is the vehicle for you.
The XCeed is a Kia Ceed with a dash of family SUV components added to the mix. It thus rides a little higher, has a distinctive body (apparently, just the front doors are shared with the Ceed), and is a little more functional. The formula seems to be working; according to Kia, the XCeed accounts for slightly over half of Ceed family sales, and since its 2019 introduction, more than 120,000 have been sold in Europe.
To stay up with competitors like the Mazda CX-30, Ford Focus Active, and Volkswagen T-Roc, the Kia XCeed has undergone some minor, aesthetic tweaks for 2022. New ‘air curtains’ at the front and new drag-reducing LED headlights and taillights are also included. The grill has been updated. Along with the brand’s new logo, which appears more like “KIN” than “KIA,” you also get a new solid brilliant green color. Make up your mind about that in the photographs.
Little has changed on the inside. The technology and equipment have undergone a few minor updates, but other than that, not much has changed. This is OK since the interior has excellent quality, plenty of tactile controls for items to be controlled by, and an entertainment system that is simple to use. But the standard Ceed has the same flaws.
A new GT-Line option is available, and it comes with sporty new rear lights, new external design features, a digital instrument panel, and sports seats. Due to the significant demand for GT-Line trim on other Kia models will retain its value on the used market and won’t break the bank, considering that even this top-end trim should start at roughly £30,000.
The XCeed’s car-like design has the drawback of being just marginally more practical than vehicles like a Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus. Alternatively, a Kia Ceed Undoubtedly, a full-sized SUV like the Nissan Qashqai provides perfect space for the family.
Although the Kia XCeed’s 426-liter cargo capacity is 31 liters larger than a conventional Ceed, it falls short of what a “proper” family SUV or estate would give regarding an adult room in the rear. If functionality is vital to you, you could choose a Kia Sportage, the Ford Focus Active estate, or the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack.
The Kia XCeed is more pleasant to drive than the Ceed because of its improved suspension and 44mm higher ride height. Its relatively soft rest does an excellent job of absorbing road imperfections. Few drivers will object to how the XCeed drives; it does so effectively and with adequate handling. It isn’t nearly as elegant as the Ford Focus Active.
The Kia XCeed was marketed with 1.0- and 1.4-liter (later updated to 1.5-liter) petrol engines, a diesel, and a plug-in hybrid variant before the 2022 facelift. The only variants left are the 1.5-liter gasoline and plug-in hybrid models, with the former adding mild hybrid technology for increased economy.
Is the Kia XCeed 2022 ideal for you?
The Kia XCeed is a fantastic alternative if you don’t require anything more practical than a standard family hatchback but want something more SUV-like.
It has a slightly higher seating position than the Kia Ceed, and its raised suspension handles rocky roads effectively. In classic Kia fashion, it offers excellent value for money, albeit select high-end variants edge closer to actual SUV status. Nevertheless, a transferable seven-year guarantee and a long list of standard features help the XCeed make a solid case for itself on the secondhand market.
Which Kia XCeed model and engine should I get?
In terms of engines, before the makeover, we’d say the 1.0-liter petrol engine is adequate for an entry-level powerplant. The diesel engine is sufficient (and particularly economical for high-mileage users) but not exceptional, while the 1.4 or 1.5-liter engines provide a fair balance of overtaking ability and economy.
We propose the now-entry-level 1.5-liter petrol as of 2022. It provides enough performance for most purchasers’ demands without breaking the bank in terms of thirst, tax, or the list price itself. The plug-in hybrid costs roughly £6,000 more but isn’t substantially quicker or friendlier to drive, so we wouldn’t bother unless you’re a corporate vehicle user or intend to make full use of plugging it in and operating in EV mode.
Trim levels, price, and equipment for the 2022 Kia XCeed facelift are unknown. In general, we think mid-level 3 specs give the most outstanding balance of equipment and cost, although we’d understand if the nicer-looking GT-Line appealed if the price was right.
What other vehicles are comparable to the Kia XCeed?
There are other elegant compact SUVs of comparable dimensions to the Kia XCeed. The Ford Focus Active and Mazda CX-30 are obvious contenders. Both are more pleasurable to drive than the Xceed, and the CX-30 has a more luxurious cabin. There’s also the Volkswagen T-Roc, which has the desired Volkswagen brand but isn’t as well equipped for the money, and the Toyota C-HR, a hybrid option with a more eye-catching look.
Kia XCeed interior design and comfort
“The Kia XCeed’s cabin isn’t much different than a Ceed’s, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.” It’s not dull, but it has a decent, logical design. However, it is beginning to seem dated in comparison to modern Sportage.
If you believe there are too many gimmicks and too much dependence on touchscreens in current car interiors, the Kia XCeed might be the vehicle for you. It features a touchscreen and pretty much everything contemporary, but there are enough traditional buttons to handle things much more quickly when on the go.
The Kia XCeed is also quite comfy. There’s enough flexibility in the driver’s seat and steering wheel to create a comfortable driving position, albeit not as high as in other compact SUVs. If you want electronic height adjustment in the driver’s seat, you’ll need a Kia XCeed First Edition, but this isn’t a problem unless you change drivers often.
The Xceed 2 lacks adjustable lumbar support for the driver and front passenger, but the rest of the range has, making lengthy rides more pleasant. The passenger seat in the entry-level automobile is also not adjustable in height.
Another issue is that the design is becoming too sensitive. The Kia Xceed debuted in 2019, while the Ceed, on which it is based, has been on the market since 2018. OK, it’s not comparable to the Fiat 500 in keeping an old vehicle running longer than it should. Still, Kia’s newer designs (such as the larger Sportage SUV) seem substantially more contemporary on the interior.
Heated front seats, heated steering wheels, and heated outer rear seats are standard for higher-spec equipment. On a frigid winter morning, don’t underestimate the allure of these qualities.
Finishing and quality
The interior of the Kia XCeed is undoubtedly a step forward from the gloomy and dismal cabins of earlier Korean vehicles. In terms of quality, it’s somewhat better than the Ford Focus Active, with more soft-touch materials and glossy finishes than the Toyota C-HR.
We wouldn’t go so far as to claim the Xceed feels luxurious on the interior (even the Volkswagen T-Roc isn’t that comfy), but it does seem to be well-made.
Higher-spec, The fabric with simulated leather seats on Kia XCeed versions, gives a sense of luxury, and we appreciate the yellow stitching on the early First Edition cars. Small details like the sliding armrest on the front center console storage box, chrome-effect trim, and perforated leather on the steering wheel and gearknob on sportier models help to elevate the XCeed.
Kia XCeed infotainment has a touchscreen, a USB port, navigation, and a radio.
The Kia Xceed comes standard with an eight-inch media system that lacks sat-nav but has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to utilize navigation applications on your phone instead (typically better than in-built systems).
Although the screen is as large as seen in even the most expensive Volkswagen T-Roc models, it is practical rather than showy. Two air vents surround it on the dashboard, and it appears to be an afterthought tablet. It’s well-placed for gazing at while driving, but since it relies exclusively on its touchscreen to navigate menus, it’s not the safest device.
Look for a Kia XCeed 3 or First Edition model with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and navigation for a more upscale infotainment experience. This is no simpler to use on the go than the minor system. Still, its menus are more rationally set out, and you can divide the screen into three (excellent for accessing the radio and navigation simultaneously). It’s faster to operate and has crisper graphics than the regular system, and the larger screen makes the Xceed seem more expensive.
Instead of traditional instruments, the Kia XCeed First Edition has a 12.3-inch screen. This seems like a low-cost version of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, but customization choices are restricted. Other technological features include a premium JBL sound system and wireless phone charging, both available exclusively on First Edition. It’s a pity they’re not even available on other trim levels.
The giant touchscreen and digital dial display are available on the facelifted 2022 XCeed. Both have improved visuals, with the dial display now offering multiple themes based on the driving mode chosen. Front and rear USB-C connectors are also included. There is also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The 2022 model also gets new connectivity, such as the ability to sync your Google or Apple calendar to the touchscreen to receive appointment reminders (and locations for the sat-nav), as well as improved connected services and an updated Kia Connect app, which brings live traffic data, weather forecasts, and live parking information. You may establish two user profiles if there is more than one driver.
Kia XCeed boot space and functionality
The Kia Xceed is a roomy vehicle, especially in front, with enough space for two tall people and lots of convenient storage spots. There’s a large cubby box under the center armrest, two large cup holders between the front seats, and a sunglasses holder on the top. Even the door bins are a good size.
In the rear, there’s no discernible difference in space between the XCeed and the Ceed hatchback on which it’s based. For taller people, headroom is restricted, particularly in vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. Legroom isn’t very generous for anybody over six feet tall, and seating three in the back will be difficult.
Nonetheless, entry is simple due to the higher sitting position than the normal Ceed and the wide open doors. This will also aid when installing kid seats, as will the Isofix points installed on the outside rear seats.
The cargo capacity in the Kia XCeed is sufficient rather than outstanding. It’s pretty narrow because of the sloping roofline and has a relatively high lip, which might be an issue if you’re loading big stuff. It has a baggage capacity of 426 liters, more significant than the regular Ceed and the Ford Focus Active (available in a more practical estate form) but somewhat less than the Volkswagen T-Roc.
If you need extra baggage room, the Kia XCeed lacks a sliding rear bench, but the rear seats split 60:40 (40:20:40 on First Edition versions) and fold effortlessly, allowing up to 1378 liters of luggage capacity. Another feature available exclusively on First Edition cars is an electronic tailgate.
On the bright side, most Kia XCeed models have a space-saving spare wheel, which isn’t often standard. The Edition model is an anomaly since it employs one of those irritating tire repair kits.
If you want to fit the Kia XCeed into your garage, remember that it’s 4395 mm long, 1826 mm wide, and 1495 mm tall.
What’s the ride and handling like in the Kia XCeed?
“You’d expect the Xceed to have a more comfortable ride and slightly soggier handling compared to the standard car if you took the Ceed and dialed up the ride height (it’s up to 44 m
That is, in fact, somewhat correct. Its electric power steering system hasn’t been changed, so it’s still straightforward (though not as engaging as a Ford Focus Active), and the Xceed feels nimble enough for most drivers. Of course, a higher center of gravity means it will lean more in corners, but you’d have to compare the Xceed to the Ceed to detect the difference.
However, you will notice a change in the suspension. Kia installed softer springs and new hydraulic front bump stops to deliver a gentle, agreeable ride on even the most challenging routes. Whether you want to tackle potholed urban centers or broken country roads, the XCeed offers a far better ride than the basic Ceed. Minor changes to the 2022 facelift make little impact on the way the vehicle drives.
The ride quality on the heavier plug-in hybrid variant is still somewhat decent. However, it is less controllable in the bends, leaning over more obviously and feeling less nimble overall. Neither the petrol nor hybrid XCeed will get your heart racing on a tight road.
Despite sitting higher than a regular automobile, it seems more car-like than competitors such as the Volkswagen T-Roc and Toyota C-HR. That implies you won’t be sitting very high and won’t have an SUV-like driving stance to help you see over city traffic. It has decent visibility and isn’t a massive vehicle (though it is somewhat more significant than the conventional Ceed), so slipping through gaps in metropolitan areas is simple. All versions have a reversing camera, which is helpful while parking.
Some purchasers may be disappointed that a four-wheel-drive version is unavailable despite the Kia XCeed’s off-road appearance. We doubt you’ll miss it in real life; if you’re worried about harsh weather, get a pair of winter tires. If you want to go mudslinging, get a good off-roader like a Suzuki Jimny.m higher depending on the wheel size).
Noise levels and refinement
The entry-level 1.0-liter engine generates substantial noise for a little three-cylinder machine. You’ll notice it, particularly if you’re dashing about town and pushing the engine hard, but it’s not irritating. It just adds character.
The 1.4-liter engine is more mature but still sounds thrashy at high rpm. The remedy is to change gears sooner, which the 1.4 can accomplish because of its increased torque over the 1.0-liter. Of course, the 1.6-liter diesel, like all types of diesel, is grumbly at first but quickly calms down at higher speeds.
The softer springs and chunkier tires (especially on the 16-inch wheels) contribute to refinement and ride quality. There isn’t much road noise, but because of the XCeed’s higher ride height, there is a bit of wind noise. It’s a comfortable cruiser, however, and once up and running, it quickly settles into a sophisticated long-distance companion. If wind noise becomes a concern, crank up the radio—the JBL premium sound system supplied to First Edition cars is very impressive.
When you crank the 2022 engines, the 1.5 and 1.6-liter plug-in hybrids are a little raucous. They’re quiet if you keep the speed down, and the hybrid will run quietly in electric-only mode with a mild throttle.
Safety features: How secure is the Kia XCeed?
The Kia XCeed comes equipped with a slew of cutting-edge active safety features; however, it’s a pity that they’re only available on the most expensive variants in the lineup. We have yet to see what will be standard in the 2022 makeover, but things should improve.
The Kia XCeed 2 has Forward Accident Avoidance Assist (City), which employs a camera and sensors to identify and advise the driver of an approaching low-speed accident with another vehicle. If you do not reply, the car may use the brakes to reduce the impact. This does not watch out for bicycles or pedestrians by default, although it may be enabled as an option when new (it is standard on the Xceed First Edition and manual trim levels).
It also has Hill-Start Assist Control, which prevents you from awkwardly sliding backward during a hill start, and a Driver Attention Warning, which warns you if you’re tired or inattentive. If you wander from your lane, Lane Keep Assist will urge you back into it. At the same time, Lane Following Assist – standard on automatic First Edition models only – may utilize cars ahead to regulate acceleration, braking, and steering while in stop-and-go traffic.
If a collision is unavoidable, plenty of airbags keep you safe, and Isofix points on the outside rear seats will keep your children secure.
Blind Sport Collision Avoidance Assist (which will counter-steer to prevent a disaster if you steer into a vehicle in a neighboring lane), an upgraded Driver Attention Warning, and Rear-Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance (essentially auto-braking if you’re reversing into traffic) are among the new technologies for 2022. The Forward Collision Warning system now detects pedestrians and bicycles.
Euro NCAP has not crash-tested the Kia XCeed, although the average Ceed’s four-star rating applies here. That implies it’s a reasonably safe vehicle but not the safest in its class.
How much does it cost to operate a Kia XCeed?
“As is customary, the diesel Kia XCeed versions are the most economical. In official WLTP fuel economy testing, the lower-powered 116PS 1.6-liter diesel delivers 52.3 mpg, while the 136PS variant is marginally more efficient, getting 53.3 mpg.
However, these types of gasoline are not very thirsty. If you buy an Xceed with the 1.0-liter T-GDi engine, you can anticipate 45.6 mpg with the 16-inch alloy wheels and 44.1 mpg with the more prominent 18-inch wheels. Again, this is based on WLTP testing, and the difference will likely be slight in practice.
Even the 1.4-liter gasoline engine will use less gasoline. It officially yields 42.8 mpg with the manual transmission, decreasing to 40.9 mpg with the automatic transmission (or 40.4 mpg in the First Edition version with its fancy alloy wheels).
Kia has yet to publish XCeed efficiency estimates for the 2022 facelift. However, because of the mild hybrid technology, the 1.5-liter engine should be 10% more efficient.
How trustworthy is the Kia XCeed?
In the HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Index, Kia scored 9.31 out of 10 for dependability.
The Kia XCeed has a seven-year manufacturer’s guarantee, and we are unaware of any common problems. Servicing should also be reasonable.
Costs and insurance groups
The Kia XCeed should cost no more to insure than the ordinary Ceed and surely no more than its competitors. The three models with the 1.0 T-GDi engine will be the cheapest since they fall within Group 12. The First Edition versions, which have the 1.4 engine, will be the most expensive. If you’re worried about the cost of insurance, it’s usually a good idea to get several quotations. However, we have not yet seen pricing for the 2022 models.
Standard trim levels and features
The most affordable Kia XCeed 2 has 16-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. There’s also a reversing camera and an 8-inch touchscreen media system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). You probably don’t need more.
The Xceed 3 has attractive “good to have” features and won’t be more expensive on the used market. 18-inch alloy wheels, 10.25-inch navigation, and privacy glass are standard. It’s a comfortable option with heated front seats (with semi-faux leather upholstery), a heated steering wheel, and electrically adjustable lumbar support (for the driver and front passenger).
Kia loves limited edition models. Look for the XCeed Edition for premium paint (silver, yellow, or flame blue), 18-inch alloy wheels, and privacy glass, but it’s not as fully equipped as the Kia XCeed 3.
Meanwhile, the Kia XCeed First Edition is beautiful and feature-packed. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, yellow seat cloth accents, an automatic tailgate, and a 12.3-inch TFT head-up display. A JBL premium sound system and a wireless phone charger are also included. It also has many safety features, including blind-spot collision warning and intelligent cruise control (in cars with the DCT automatic transmission).
The 2022 model will feature more standard equipment across the board and a new, sportier-looking GT-Line trim level. However, we do not yet know the exact details.
